Auction Disaster

[70 copo]

Car Plows Through Ga. Auto Auction Crowd, Injuring 28
Wednesday, February 17, 2010


Authorities say as many as 28 people may have been injured Tuesday night after a car plowed through the crowd at an auto auction in North Georgia.

Gilmer County sheriff Stacy Nicholson said at least 12 people were critically injured and another 16 were "walking injured" after the accident, which happened at about 8.15 p.m. at the Blue Ridge Auto Auction, in Ellijay.

Gilmer County Lt. Frank Copeland said the auction features a large building where cars are rolled through for an audience to bid. Authorities said dealers were placing bets on a Volvo when the automobile rammed into the crowd. Georgia State Patrol is investigating. A spokesman was not in the office Tuesday night and did not immediately return an e-mail.

Copeland said five of the victims were flown to several hospitals, while others were transported by ambulance.